Level 4 Ballet/Pointe

Students have now learned the foundation of barre and center exercises and will begin slowly increasing the complexity with a focus on proper technical execution. Sound technical fundamentals continue to be a priority. In Level IV, Girls will begin introductory pointe work at the discretion of the faculty. Basic pointe work includes learning how to prepare the shoes for dancing and developing strength in the feet, ankles, legs, core and upper body with exercises on two feet facing the barre. When Level IV students are ready, they will begin simple center work with releves (rises on to full pointe) on two feet. Pointe classes are introduced at 30 minutes and increase in length and frequency in subsequent years as students gain strength for more complex movements. Level IV is a two-year program to prepare for Intermediate Ballet. Conditioning classes are included in the curriculum for all Level IV Ballet students. This class includes exercises that improve strength, alignment, flexibility, balance, and movement flow. Students are required to perform in the Spring performances and the Nutcracker each year. All Level IV students are required to attend the two-week summer intensive. Contemporary dance, Jazz and Modern dance classes are included in the curriculum.